Thursday, November 23, 2006

Based on a popular comic book series, MBC's hit drama Palace fancifully re-imagines present-day Korea as a constitutional monarchy with a royal family. A beautiful palace, sitting in the heart of modern-day Seoul, becomes the home to a group of young royals pulled into the political rivalries, comical hijinks, and romantic entanglements of palace life. Sparks will fly when youth romance meets palace politics in this colorful romantic comedy!Palace, a.k.a. Princess Hours, was hailed as "the future of Korea's TV drama industry" by Variety magazine. The innovative premise, vivid cinematography, elaborate sets and costume designs, and fresh young cast charmed the audience, pulling in ratings of nearly 30 percent during its broadcast in Korea. Starring breakout stars Ju Ji Hoon, Yoon Eun Hae of Baby V.O.X., and Kim Jung Hun of UN, Palace was so popular the series was extended to 24 episodes from its original 20. In addition, a sequel is already in the works.Shin (Ju Ji Hoon) may be the picture-perfect Crown Prince, but he is aloof and wary of his royal status. Commoner Chae Gyung (Yoon Eun Hye) is headstrong and outspoken, but fiercely loyal to her loved ones. Their worlds unexpectedly collide when an arranged marriage makes them husband and wife! It's not exactly "happily ever after" for this royal odd couple as they try to make sense of their relationship. Chae Gyung has trouble adjusting to palace life and Shin is still pining for his girlfriend Hyo Rin (Song Ji Hyo). Life gets even more complicated when Prince Yool (Kim Jung Hun) returns to the Palace to compete for both Chae Gyung's affection and the throne.